This fall, the University of Iowa College of Law welcomed the Class of 2027—the largest class in recent history. With 188 students, this incoming group marks a significant increase from the 156 students in the Class of 2026. 

Despite the growth in class size, Iowa Law continues to uphold its tradition of academic excellence. The Class of 2027 boasts a median LSAT score of 162 and a median undergraduate GPA of 3.76. These numbers nearly mirror the academic achievements of the class of 2026 (163 median LSAT score and 3.76 median undergraduate GPA), the most academically qualified entering class in the history of Iowa Law. 

“Our higher-than-expected yield has resulted in a larger class size, but more importantly, they remain among the most academically qualified students in law school history. They come from diverse backgrounds, representing various geographic locations and undergraduate institutions. This diversity will undoubtedly enhance the vibrancy and intellectual rigor of the Iowa Law community, and we are excited to have them on campus,” said Dean Kevin Washburn.  

The Class of 2027 represents 97 different undergraduate institutions, an increase from the previous year’s 79. As a result of the college’s efforts to keep top talent in the state of Iowa, the University of Iowa leads as the largest feeder school with 45 students (24% of the entering class). Other institutions within the top five include Drake University, the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Brigham Young University, and Grinnell College. 

This year’s entering class also reflects a broad geographical representation, with students coming from 31 states (up from 29 last year), the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, South Korea, and India. The gender distribution is 55% female, 38% male, and 7% of students did not disclose. The students range in age from 20 to 34, with an average of 24. Additionally, 19% of the class are first-generation law students, and 29% identify as being from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds (as determined by the ABA). 

The academic interests of the Class of 2027 are as varied as their backgrounds. While 20% of students majored in Political Science, the remaining 80% pursued studies across 51 different fields. This diversity among students in upbringing and academic interest fosters a welcoming and dynamic learning environment at Iowa Law.  

Collins Byrd, Assistant Dean of Enrollment Management, noted that the 2023 Supreme Court ruling prohibiting race-based admissions did not change the landscape for Iowa Law.  

“We have never focused unduly on race or ethnic categories but have always used a holistic approach to evaluating applicants. The omission of racial data in our process thus did not change our approach. The way we do things continues to work for us.”